Wisconsin workers' compensation laws
If you want to open up a business in the state of Wisconsin, there are endless paths to choose from. Some might lead to fame and fortune, while other Wisconsin employers want to make a difference in their local community. No matter how you choose to run your business, there are a few essential elements to your success, including enrolling in small business insurance and workers’ compensation coverage.
The Wisconsin Workers’ Compensation Act, passed in 1911, is designed to offer financial benefits to injured workers after an illness or injury occurs on the job site. Employers are equally aided by workers’ compensation coverage as it provides indemnity from litigation or financial responsibility. In the state of Wisconsin, the workers’ compensation program stipulates that any company with three or more full-time or part-time employees needs to retain coverage.
Additionally, smaller businesses with fewer than three employees who each earn $500 or more per quarter may also have to provide workers’ compensation insurance. The Workers’ Compensation Division has set other guidelines based on a company’s industry, the work schedule of some staff members, and whether or not independent contractors are hired. When in doubt, employers can contact the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD).
Employers in Wisconsin who are required to enroll in coverage can do so through an insurance company or the Wisconsin Compensation Rating Bureau. Failure to do so can have some huge consequences. Failing to abide by the workers’ compensation law may come with penalties up to $10,000, a stop work order and, in the case of a covered claim while you are out of compliance, you would not be exempt from seizure of property.
Purchasing workers’ compensation coverage is far cheaper than paying for an injured employee’s medical bills, and your premiums may be less expensive than you think. Employers in the state of Wisconsin who need to obtain coverage can start by getting a workers’ compensation estimate to see just how much they should budget for.
How much is Wisconsin workers' compensation insurance?
The potential penalties for not complying with workers’ compensation insurance requirements can be expensive, let alone the medical costs associated with workplace injuries, making enrolling in this type of policy a no-brainer. Most Wisconsin employers tend to pay an average of $85 per month, which is often the lowest premium available across insurers in the state.
Employers sometimes fear future workers’ compensation claims, but remember, this insurance is designed to protect you from paying the huge expenses that could result from a work-related injury. When you factor in the medical treatment, vocational rehabilitation, and disability benefits workers’ compensation may pay toward, a mere $85 per month for coverage is incredibly affordable. Want to know how much workers’ compensation coverage costs for your particular company? Start by getting a free estimate.
Workers' compensation benefits and coverage in Wisconsin
The benefits outlined in Wisconsin’s workers’ compensation state laws are very similar to those in other parts of the nation. If an employee sustains a work-related injury or develops an occupational disease, they could expect some of the following benefits:
- Replacement of one’s wages up to two-thirds of their average weekly wage
- Payment toward medical expenses
- Temporary partial disability or permanent partial disability coverage
- Vocational rehabilitation and/or retraining
- Death benefits
The range of injuries and occupational diseases that could be covered under workers' compensation is extensive. It includes physical harm such as cuts or burns, mental issues like nervous disorders, or an illness stemming from workplace conditions. Each workers’ compensation claim is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and may or may not provide the benefits that an employee is expecting.
As an employer, it’s important to provide as much information on your claim as possible to help your injured employee during this time.
Top industries we serve in Wisconsin:
4 reasons why business owners in Wisconsin love Huckleberry
- You’ll save time. Most business owners obtain a workers’ compensation quote in 60 seconds and enroll in a new policy in minutes.
- You’ll save money. Employers, on average, pay 32% less for their insurance policy with Huckleberry.
- You’ll save paper. Everything related to your policy, from the application to the certificate of insurance, is housed online.
- You’ll save yourself from stress. Huckleberry explains everything in simple terms and makes it easy to get the workers’ compensation coverage you need.
FAQ: Wisconsin workers' compensation requirements
In most cases, a self-employed individual does not need workers’ compensation coverage in Wisconsin. Anyone who is a sole proprietor or an independent contractor likely won’t need to enroll in this type of insurance unless they meet the employee requirement, or their industry is risky and they feel they would benefit from having it in place. It’s best to check with the DWD for more information before you enroll as a self-employed person.
The state of Wisconsin takes workers’ compensation coverage very seriously, and failing to comply with state law may bring harsh ramifications. Business owners who do not enroll in coverage could face large penalties and might even lose their ability to run their business.
Yes, part-time and full-time employees must be covered under workers’ compensation. There are some exceptions to consider, including domestic servants, the real estate industry, or those who may be part of a specific religious sect. It’s recommended that you familiarize yourself with Wisconsin’s workers’ compensation law for more information.
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